HIGHWAYS officials are gearing up to tackle heavy snow expected to hit Huddersfield.

And they urge people to be sensible as they plan to try to keep open all the town's major routes.

The appeal follows a severe weather warning from the Met Office. It says heavy snow could hit the area later tonight or early tomorrow.

Richard Bunney, of Kirklees Council's Highways Services, said: "The forecasters have told us up to 10cm (4in) of snow could fall in Huddersfield, with up to 30cm (12in) on some of the higher, more exposed ground.

"There are also likely to be strong to gale-force winds, which will bring drifting in parts. Snowfall is very difficult to forecast, as winds can change so quickly.

"We will start a full gritting operation today and continue working as long as necessary."